• Source:JND

12 Indians were among 13 killed in a massive explosion at the Barzan local gas supply facility, a liquified natural gas (LNG) complex, in Ras Laffan Industrial City on Sunday, the Indian embasy in Doha confirmed.

Taking to X, the embassy wrote, "Qatari authorities have confirmed that 12 Indian nationals have unfortunately passed away in the Ras Laffan incident yesterday night. We extend our deepest condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls." 

66 people were also injured in the incident. The embassy said that the Qatari authorities have confirmed the injured are in stable condition. "Our Embassy is working in close contact with the Qatari authorities to extend all possible help to the Indian nationals and their families affected by this incident, including ensuring that mortal remains of the deceased are sent to India at the earliest," the embassy added.

Speaking to the media on Monday, Qatar's Energy Minister Saad al-Kaabi said, "I find myself today having to do something I have always hoped would never happen, and that is to announce the tragic loss of 13 lives of our people who hold Indian and Pakistani nationalities".

Explosion during restart after March strike by Iran

The explosion reportedly took place while workers were restarting operations halted after an Iranian attack in March.

Earlier today, India expressed solidarity with the Middle East country and its people and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.

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In a post on X, the Indian Embassy in Doha wrote, "Embassy of India, Doha expresses deep concern at the unfortunate incident that occurred at the Ras Laffan Industrial City yesterday, in which several people got injured, and some are missing as per authorities".

"At this challenging and difficult time, the Embassy of India and the entire Indian community in Qatar stand in solidarity with the Government and people of Qatar. We wish for the speedy recovery of those injured and hope and pray for the safety of those missing," it added.

Blast felt up to over 70 km

The blast was so intense that it rattled windows and was felt across central Doha, panicking residents over 70 kilometres from Ras Laffan.

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The explosion is seen as a challenge that the Middle East is facing to restart the plants and revamp oil and gas supplies, which were hit during a war between the US and Israel group and Iran for a little less than 4 months.

Qatar has been among the countries to see hardest hit by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as it has no alternative routes to export, unlike the UAE and Saudi Arabia.


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